The city is looking to expand its Pedestrian Plaza program across the five boroughs, with the hopes of creating a more pedestrian friendly environment while reducing the numbers of serious and fatal New York City pedestrian accidents.

A total of 171 people were killed in New York City pedestrian accidents in 2009, according to the New York City Department of Health.

The Department of Transportation is asking non-profit organizations to submit proposals for smaller versions of the plazas now in place in Times Square and Herald Square. The city wants to create vibrant public pedestrian space in underused streets across the five boroughs.

As reported in February on our New York Injury Lawyer blog, city officials made the closures in Times and Herald squares permanent after an eight-month trial period.

While critics have contended the street closures add to congestion, city officials are promising not to select ideas that will add to the gridlock. Winning organizations will be responsible for maintenance, design, programming, funding and outreach for the spaces.

The city is running a separate contest for artists and designers to submit ideas to spruce up the existing plazas; winners will be awarded $15,000 and must oversee the implementation of winning designs.